The Humboldt Builders Exchange is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 trade scholarship awards, recognizing four remarkable Humboldt County students who are pursuing careers in the construction trades and related industries.
These scholarships are funded through HBE community events and member support, including the annual Installation Dinner, golf tournament, raffles, and fundraising efforts throughout the year. The goal of the program is simple: invest directly in the next generation of builders, tradespeople, project managers, and industry leaders here in Humboldt County.
This year’s scholarship recipients represent a wide range of construction career paths, from welding and heavy equipment operation to project management and construction management.
2026 Scholarship Recipients
AvaJane Harlow – Fortuna High School
AvaJane plans to attend the welding program at Butte College with the goal of becoming a professional welder. HBE members were especially excited to support a student entering such a high-demand skilled trade field.
Tristan Titus – Ferndale High School
Tristan will attend Butte College to study heavy equipment operation. His long-term goal is to return home to Humboldt County and work in the local construction industry operating heavy equipment and commercial trucks.
Blake Santos – McKinleyville High School
Blake plans to pursue studies in project management at Butte College and hopes to continue a family connection to the construction industry.
Travis Way – South Fork High School
Travis plans to attend California State University, Sacramento to study construction management, with the goal of returning to Southern Humboldt to work alongside his brother in the trades.
HBE leadership noted that this year’s applicants demonstrated exceptional work ethic, community involvement, and commitment to building meaningful careers in the trades.
The Humboldt Builders Exchange would like to thank its members, sponsors, raffle donors, and event attendees whose support makes these scholarships possible each year. Every ticket purchased and every sponsorship contributed helps create opportunities for local students entering the construction industry.
As Humboldt County continues to face workforce shortages in skilled trades and construction-related professions, investing in young people remains one of the organization’s highest priorities.
